One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Save this recipe on:

Succulent shrimp nestled in a rich, garlicky tomato cream sauce with tender orzo—this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a flavor-packed dish that’s as elegant as it is easy. It brings together the delicate sweetness of shrimp with the comforting warmth of sun-dried tomatoes, parmesan, and herbs, all enveloped in a single skillet meal that feels both indulgent and homemade.

Perfect for a romantic dinner, yet quick enough for a weeknight, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in under 40 minutes. The name “Marry Me” isn’t just for fun—it’s the kind of dish that gets attention, turns heads, and could very well seal the deal at the dinner table. It’s hearty, creamy, and just spicy enough to leave a lasting impression.

---

Why You’ll Love This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

• Minimal Cleanup: One pot means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy the meal.
• Ready in Under 40 Minutes: Ideal for both last-minute meals and planned dinners.
• Full of Flavor: The sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, parmesan, and chili flakes deliver layers of taste.
• Customizable: Swap the shrimp for scallops or even chicken if you prefer.
• Romantic but Easy: The perfect balance of elegance and simplicity.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment, Plus Why They Matter)

To make this One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta seamless and stress-free, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Large Deep Skillet or Dutch Oven: This is your MVP. It allows even cooking and holds everything from the sauté to the simmer. A Dutch oven retains heat beautifully, but any wide, deep skillet works as long as it has a lid.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching the pan, especially when you’re scraping up flavorful bits from sautéing.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy is key in balancing the rich tomato and cream flavors, so don’t eyeball ingredients here.
• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: For mincing garlic, slicing sun-dried tomatoes, and chopping herbs. A sharp knife saves time and ensures precision.
• Zester or Microplane (optional): If you like finishing with a touch of lemon zest, this tool elevates the freshness without adding extra juice.

---

Preparation Tips

• Use Fresh, Large Shrimp: If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to avoid watering down your sauce.
• Toast the Orzo Slightly: Sautéing the orzo in oil or butter before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor and keeps it from getting mushy.
• Don’t Rush the Garlic: Letting garlic cook for 30–60 seconds on low heat before adding liquid helps it mellow and sweeten without burning.
• Simmer, Don’t Boil: Once the liquids are in, keep the heat medium-low. A gentle simmer allows orzo to cook evenly and soak up flavor.
• Finish with Lemon or Fresh Herbs: A final sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds brightness and color that balances the creamy sauce beautifully.

---

Ingredients for This One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this rich, comforting, and flavorful dish:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off, your choice)
• 1 cup orzo pasta, uncooked
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (oil-packed preferred)
• 1½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for pescatarian version)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
• Optional: juice of ½ lemon (for a bright finishing touch)

These ingredients balance creamy richness with zesty, savory notes for a full-bodied, one-pan pasta that feels gourmet but is a breeze to prepare.

---

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Once the pan is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear for about 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside—they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later.

---

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Tomatoes

Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same pan. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute to deepen their flavor.

---

Step 3: Toast the Orzo

Pour in the orzo and toss to coat it in the oil and aromatics. Stir for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the pasta—this step enhances its nutty flavor and helps keep it firm during cooking.

---

Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Cream

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 8–10 minutes or until the orzo is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

---

Step 5: Stir in Cheese and Shrimp

Reduce heat to low. Stir in parmesan cheese and butter until melted and creamy. Return the shrimp to the pan and cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice if desired.

---

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot straight from the pan. It’s delicious on its own or with crusty bread to mop up the sauce.

---

Notes

• Shrimp Size Matters: Larger shrimp (like 16/20 count) work best—they stay juicy and are less likely to overcook.
• Cream Substitute: For a lighter version, half-and-half can be used instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly thinner.
• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne if you like heat.
• Add Veggies: Spinach or baby kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes for added nutrition and color.
• Orzo Absorbs Quickly: If your mixture dries out before the orzo is fully cooked, stir in a splash of extra broth or water as needed.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Shrimp: This is the most common pitfall. Shrimp cook fast—just until they’re opaque and curled. Any longer and they’ll turn rubbery.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic goes from golden to bitter quickly. Keep your heat medium-low and stir constantly during this step.
• Not Toasting the Orzo: Skipping this step can lead to a mushier texture and less flavor depth.
• Boiling Too Aggressively: A rolling boil can cause cream to separate. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Adding Cheese Over High Heat: Parmesan should be stirred in at low heat to melt smoothly into the sauce without clumping or burning.

---

What to Serve With One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta?

This dish is rich and satisfying on its own, but a few side additions can really round out the meal. Whether you want something fresh, crunchy, or indulgent, here are some tasty pairings:

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread – Classic and perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce.
2. Arugula Salad – Peppery greens with lemon vinaigrette offer a refreshing contrast.
3. Grilled Asparagus – Adds a light, slightly smoky element that pairs beautifully with the shrimp.
4. Roasted Broccolini – A touch of char brings out its natural sweetness.
5. Caprese Salad – Tomato, mozzarella, and basil complement the Italian-inspired flavors.
6. Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc – If you’re serving wine, these pair excellently with creamy shrimp dishes.
7. Crusty Artisan Bread – A rustic bread adds texture and soaks up the sauce wonderfully.
8. Lemon-Parmesan Green Beans – A citrusy, crunchy side that balances the richness of the main dish.

---

Storage Instructions

This dish stores surprisingly well, although it’s best fresh. Follow these tips to keep leftovers just as delicious:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Because of the cream and seafood, freezing may affect the texture and flavor negatively.
• Meal Prep Tip: If you’re planning ahead, cook the orzo and sauce separately from the shrimp, then combine when ready to serve. This helps prevent overcooked shrimp.

---

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving, Serves 4)

• Calories: ~540
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 4g
• Sodium: 840mg
• Cholesterol: 180mg

Note: These values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

---

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

2. What can I substitute for orzo?

You can use small pasta like ditalini or couscous, but adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, replace the cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free substitute and use nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for the cheese.

4. How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking or omit entirely for a no-heat version.

5. Is it okay to use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but add them at the very end just to warm through to avoid making them rubbery.

6. Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can make it a few hours ahead and reheat gently. Hold off on adding shrimp until just before serving for best texture.

7. What type of cream works best?

Heavy cream gives the richest result, but half-and-half is a lighter option that still works well.

8. Will the orzo continue to cook after removing from heat?

Yes, orzo absorbs liquid even after cooking. Stir occasionally or serve right away to keep it perfectly al dente.

---

Conclusion

One Pot Marry Me Shrimp and Orzo Pasta is a deliciously creamy, full-flavored dish that brings both elegance and comfort to the table—without the hassle. With just one pan and a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a meal that’s bound to impress, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Perfectly seasoned shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and creamy orzo all come together to create something unforgettable. Try it once, and it just might become a regular in your recipe rotation.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: